South Dakotas State Quarter design selection process began when state residents were asked to submit design suggestions. The process reached its final phase in January 2005 when state residents were able to vote on the final five design proposals. The winning South Dakota State Quarter design features the official state bird - a Chinese ring-necked pheasant - in flight above Mount Rushmore National Monument. Heads of wheat frame the design on the left and right to symbolize the states agricultural heritage.